De Ligt Reaches Key Return Checkpoint After Lengthy Layoff

Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt has taken a key step in his injury recovery by featuring in a behind-closed-doors friendly against FC Lausanne-Sport. The 27-year-old center-back played alongside Carlos Baleba and Diego Leon as manager Michael Carrick manages his return from a long-term layoff following summer surgery.

De Ligt has been sidelined since November and did not feature in the recent matchday squad against Fulham at Craven Cottage. Although he is considered unlikely to face Tottenham, potential opportunities for his competitive return include upcoming Champions League fixtures against Atletico Madrid or Como.